Common ways a Shoulder injury occurs

Trauma

Trauma is a leading cause of shoulder injury in young athletes and older populations. Collisions and falls predispose the bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments of the shoulder to damage, frequently resulting in the need for surgical repair.

Repetitive Use

Repetitive use is a common cause of shoulder pain. People whose occupations require overhead work (plumbers, electricians, carpenters, etc.) are particularly susceptible to repetitive use injuries. Athletes who play sports that require overhead use of the shoulder (baseball, tennis, volleyball, swimming, etc.), can develop overuse injuries requiring surgical repair.

Degeneration

Over time, our bodies age. This includes the bones, muscles and tendons of the shoulder. Inflammation from “wear and tear” of the joints results in arthritis, whereas degeneration of the muscles and tendons results in tears that do not heal without surgical repair.